​Biblical Definition of Baptism:

• Baptism symbolizes identification with Christ’s death and resurrection. Through baptism, the old self is crucified with Christ (in the waters of death), and followers of Jesus rise to “newness of life” (Romans 6:3-11)

• It signifies:

  • Confession of faith in Christ

  • Cleansing or washing of the soul from sin

  • Death to sin and new life in righteousness

Purpose of Baptism:

• Baptism represents ritual purification and consecration. In the Old Testament, water was used for cleansing and achieving ritual purity (Exodus 30:19–20)

• It signifies devotion to God and a fresh start—a spiritual rebirth where the Spirit of God dwells within the believer.

Prerequisite of Baptism:

Before a prospective candidate is admitted for baptism, there must be a public confession of his or her faith in our Lord Jesus the Christ as their Savior. This public confession is historically done during the portion of service where the "doors of the church are opened".

​

​The confession must acknowledge the following:

• Acknowledgment of our sinful nature

• A statement of confession that Jesus is the Son of God

• A statement of confession that we believe he was crucified, buried, & raised from the dead.

• A statement of confession that his blood sacrifice paid our sin debt in full.

• A final confession that we believe that he is alive & soon to return to receive us unto himself.

 A child must be of age and must understand sin & its consequences. A child should come voluntarily of their own conviction. After confession, the candidate is permitted to partake in the act of baptism.

​

After the Baptism:

Baptism is an ordinance of the Baptist faith, and therefore serves as a prerequisite to membership and and partaking of the Lord's Supper. After baptism, the believer can now exercise all rights and privileges of membership including service, voting, and benefits.